Parque Mexico in La Condesa, Mexico City

Retire in Mexico City

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Jun 16, 2025

Summary: Mexico City, Mexico is an attractive destination for retirees due to its vibrant culture, diverse cuisine, and affordable cost of living. There are several retirement communities in Mexico City, offering a variety of amenities such as swimming pools, fitness centers, and social activities. The cost of a nice two bedroom home in Mexico City is typically around $100,000 USD, while a nice three bedroom home can cost around $150,000 USD. The weather in Mexico City is generally mild, with temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to the mid-80s Fahrenheit throughout the year.

SJB Global
SJB Global
SJB Global
SJB Global

What is it like to retire in Mexico City?

"Life in Mexico City and its surroundings is an incredibly vibrant experience for retirees. Thanks to its large expat community, retirees can find a sense of companionship and community, as well as a wealth of cultural and recreational activities. There are a wide variety of cultural attractions to enjoy, such as colorful street murals, outdoor markets, and elegant colonial architecture. There is an abundance of recreational activities to partake in such as boating, golfing, and jogging along the scenic waterfront. For a night out, retirees can enjoy live music and delicious cuisine from around the world in the city’s lively restaurants, bars, and clubs. Mexico City and its surroundings offer retirees a great quality of life in a beautiful and vibrant setting," said a retiree who moved to Mexico City, Mexico.

CitizenMCitizenM
Learn More

It's impossible to confuse citizenM with any other hotel. We don't look or sound like anyone else. Bold, vibrant, and artistic - that's us. Our rooms cater to modern travelers - enormous ultra-comfortable beds, unlimited free Wi-Fi and 24/7 food and drinks always waiting at canteenM. And best of all, our ambassadors are every guest's best friend.

CitizenMCitizenM

It's impossible to confuse citizenM with any other hotel. We don't look or sound like anyone else. Bold, vibrant, and artistic - that's us. Our rooms cater to modern travelers - enormous ultra-comfortable beds, unlimited free Wi-Fi and 24/7 food and drinks always waiting at canteenM. And best of all, our ambassadors are every guest's best friend.
Learn More

What advice do overseas retirees have for others considering retiring abroad?

"Retiring abroad can be an exciting opportunity for people looking for a change of pace, but it also comes with its own unique set of challenges. Retirees in Mexico City recommend researching as much as possible about the culture, language, and healthcare options in the area before making the move. They also emphasize the importance of creating a budget that factored in all the costs associated with relocating and living in the area. Additionally, retirees suggest getting to know the local customs and seeking out activities and organizations that cater to the local expat community can make adjusting to life abroad much easier," said one retiree in Mexico City.

What are the most challenging aspects of retiring in Mexico City?

"One of the most challenging aspects of retiring in Mexico City is the language barrier. While there are many people that speak English, not everyone speaks the language which can make it difficult to communicate effectively. Additionally, the cost of living in Mexico City can be high, which makes it difficult for retirees to live comfortably on a fixed income. The urban landscape of Mexico City can also make it difficult to find quieter, more rural living arrangements. Finally, red tape and bureaucratic procedures can make it difficult to gain legal residency if you are looking to stay in Mexico beyond your initial visit," said one retiree in Mexico City.

AGS Worldwide Movers

Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.

Learn MoreGet Quote

AGS Worldwide Movers

Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.

Learn MoreGet Quote

What are the most rewarding aspects of retiring in Mexico City?

"One of the most rewarding aspects of retiring in Mexico City is the affordability of living. The low cost of living means that retirees can enjoy the same lifestyle they had pre-retirement with less money. Additionally, Mexico City is a vibrant and culturally rich city that offers plenty of opportunities for retirees to explore and enjoy. From ancient ruins to contemporary art galleries and everything in between, there’s something to discover and appreciate for everyone. Additionally, retirees will have access to quality healthcare, as well as medical and retirement benefits. Last but not least, Mexico City is close to the United States border, so retirees can periodically visit family and friends back home," said one retiree in living in Mexico City, Mexico.

What are healthcare services like in Mexico City?

We asked retirees if they have access to good medical care in Mexico City. They wrote:

"Mexico City has a wide range of healthcare services available, providing citizens with access to quality medical care. The city is home to numerous public and private hospitals, clinics, and healthcare centers, staffed by qualified professionals who offer a variety of treatment and prevention services. Mexico City also has several specialized medical centers for specific conditions, such as cancer, heart disease, or diabetes. Additionally, the city features pharmacies throughout where residents can purchase both generic and brand-name medications. The government of Mexico City is committed to providing its citizens with affordable healthcare, and as such provides many of its services free of charge or at discounted rates to those in lower-income brackets," explained a retiree in Mexico City.

How do I meet people in Mexico City?

When we asked people living in Mexico City about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:

"If you are working here, start with work colleagues. An organization called MEXPAT also hosts monthly events for expats here," commented one retiree living in Mexico City, Mexico.

View More Answers

What is life like in Mexico City?

When we asked people living in Mexico City what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:

"People tend to work long hours during the week, not much on the weekends which is generally reserved for families. If you have kids you will be invited to tons of birthday parties, parents are expected to attend, not just drop the kids off. The parties are quite extravagant compared to the US," commented one retiree living in Mexico City, Mexico.

"Life for expats and digital nomads in Mexico City is vibrant and exciting. The city is full of culture, art, and history, and there are plenty of opportunities to explore and experience the local culture. The cost of living is relatively low, making it an attractive destination for those looking to live and work abroad. The city is also well-connected, with excellent public transportation and a wide range of international flights. There are plenty of coworking spaces, cafes, and restaurants to choose from, making it easy to stay connected and productive. The city is also home to a diverse and welcoming expat community, making it easy to make friends and build a social network," explained one retiree living in Mexico City.

View More Answers

CitizenM

It's impossible to confuse citizenM with any other hotel. We don't look or sound like anyone else. Bold, vibrant, and artistic - that's us. Our rooms cater to modern travelers - enormous ultra-comfortable beds, unlimited free Wi-Fi and 24/7 food and drinks always waiting at canteenM. And best of all, our ambassadors are every guest's best friend.

Learn More

CitizenM

It's impossible to confuse citizenM with any other hotel. We don't look or sound like anyone else. Bold, vibrant, and artistic - that's us. Our rooms cater to modern travelers - enormous ultra-comfortable beds, unlimited free Wi-Fi and 24/7 food and drinks always waiting at canteenM. And best of all, our ambassadors are every guest's best friend.

Learn More

What do I need to know before retiring in Mexico City?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Mexico City, they said:

"Be aware, be safe. Learn the language and adapt. Don't expect the same efficient service you get in the US. Enjoy it," commented one retiree living in Mexico City, Mexico.

"Look for the charm, enjoy the warmth of the people, travel in the country, visit traditional restaurants, visit museums, and enjoy having a unique life experience," explained one retiree living in Mexico City.

View More Answers

What type of recreational activities are there in Mexico City?

"Mexico City offers a variety of recreational facilities for visitors and locals alike. The city is home to a number of parks, including Chapultepec Park, which is the largest city park in Latin America and features a zoo, a lake, and a castle. The city also has a number of museums, including the National Museum of Anthropology, the National Museum of History, and the Museum of Modern Art. For those looking for outdoor activities, Mexico City has a number of bike paths, running trails, and golf courses. The city also has a number of sports stadiums, including the Estadio Azteca, which is the largest stadium in Latin America. For those looking for a more relaxed experience, Mexico City has a number of cafes, restaurants, and bars," said one retiree in living in Mexico City, Mexico.

Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Mexico City?

"In Mexico City, expats can find a variety of grocery stores and shopping centers to meet their needs. One popular grocery store chain is Chedraui, which has multiple locations throughout the city. Chedraui offers a wide selection of international and local products, as well as a variety of prepared foods. Another popular grocery store chain is Soriana, which also has multiple locations throughout the city. Soriana offers a wide selection of international and local products, as well as a variety of prepared foods. For other shopping needs, expats can visit the Centro Comercial Santa Fe, a large shopping mall located in the Santa Fe district. The mall offers a variety of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options. Additionally, expats can visit the Mercado de Artesanias La Ciudadela, a large market located in the historic center of the city. The market offers a variety of handmade crafts, jewelry, and other items," said one member in Mexico City.

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

CitizenM
CitizenM

Experience affordable luxury at CitizenM hotels, with stylish stays at locations like New York, London and Paris. Smart tech and prime locations make your stay unforgettable.
Learn More

CitizenMCitizenM

Experience affordable luxury at CitizenM hotels, with stylish stays at locations like New York, London and Paris. Smart tech and prime locations make your stay unforgettable.
Learn More

SJB Global
SJB Global

Copyright 1997-2026 Burlingame Interactive, Inc.

Privacy Policy Legal